Please read before relying on information from this site
thehedgeapple.com (“The Hedge Apple”) is an independent educational website about the Osage orange tree (Maclura pomifera) and natural gardening. It does not sell hedge apples, seeds, crafts, pesticides or any other products.
Placing hedge apples in homes to repel spiders, insects or rodents is a folk remedy. Laboratory studies have found that concentrated extracts of compounds from the fruit can repel some insects, but there is little evidence that whole fruit placed around a house is effective. Results described on this site are not guaranteed. For a serious pest problem, consult a licensed pest-control professional or your local cooperative extension service.
Hedge-apple sap can irritate skin; wear gloves when handling cut fruit. The fruit is not considered edible for people. Homemade garden sprays (garlic, pepper, soap, neem) can damage some plants or irritate skin and eyes — test on a small area first and keep them away from children and pets. Always follow the label on any commercial product you choose to use.
Gardening information is general and may not suit your climate or situation. Content may contain errors; corrections are welcome via the contact page. This site displays ads via Google AdSense; advertisers do not influence content.